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Easy Garlic Bread Spread Recipe

Name: Easy Garlic Bread Spread Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: ½ cup butter (softened, or melted); 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (grated); 2 cloves garlic (minced); ¼ teaspoon dried marjoram; ¼ teaspoon dried basil; ¼ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley ((1 tablespoon dried parsley)); ⅛ teaspoon salt; 1 loaf French bread (or Italian bread)

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: April 2, 2025

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Get ready to take your garlic bread to the next level with this irresistible easy garlic bread spread recipe! With the perfect blend of buttery goodness, savory garlic, and just the right amount of seasoning, this spread will make every bite of your bread golden, crispy, and packed with flavor. It’s the secret ingredient you never knew you needed!

Easy Garlic Bread Spread Recipe made with butter, garlic, and herbs, perfect for spreading on fresh bread before baking.

This easy garlic bread spread recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving flavorful garlic bread without the hassle.

Made with simple ingredients like softened butter, minced garlic, and a blend of herbs, it’s quick to prepare and can be spread generously on your favorite air fryer sourdough bread recipe.

The combination of garlic, parsley, and a touch of salt adds the perfect savory punch, and it takes only minutes to mix together. Whether you’re making a casual family meal or serving it as an appetizer, this garlic bread spread is sure to be a hit every time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

Quick and Simple: With just a few basic ingredients, this spread comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Customizable Flavor: You can easily adjust the garlic and herbs to your taste, adding more or less depending on your preferences. It’s versatile enough for any palate.
Perfectly Balanced: The combination of buttery richness and savory garlic makes for a delicious spread that enhances the flavor of any bread, creating the ultimate garlic bread experience.
Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, this easy garlic bread spread is sure to impress guests and satisfy family members alike

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients needed for Easy Garlic Bread Spread Recipe on kitchen table.

Softened butter: For smooth spreading and rich flavor.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, savory flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic delivers a strong, aromatic garlic taste.
Marjoram: Dried marjoram adds a warm, slightly sweet herbal note.
Basil: Dried basil enhances flavor with a slightly sweet, savory taste.
Dried oregano: Dried oregano gives a bold, earthy herbal flavor.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the spread with vibrant green freshness.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances and enhances all flavors.
French or Italian bread: Fresh French or Italian bread provides a perfect base.

How to Make Garlic Bread Spread

In a medium bowl, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried marjoram, basil, oregano, parsley, and salt mixed together for garlic bread spread.

Step One: In a medium bowl, add melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried marjoram, dried basil, dried oregano, parsley, and salt.

Step Two: Stir everything together until fully blended and smooth.

Slice of French or Italian bread spread generously with garlic butter mixture on the cut sides.

Step Three: Slice a loaf of French or Italian bread in half lengthwise. Generously spread the garlic butter mixture onto the cut sides of the bread.

Step Four: For crispy garlic bread, place the bread on a baking sheet and bake at 375 degrees F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy. You can also broil it for a minute or two for extra crispiness. Slice the garlic bread and serve it as a side dish or appetizer!

Easy Garlic Bread Spread Recipe with garlic, butter, and herbs spread on bread, ready to bake.

Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and spreading. Cold butter can make the spread lumpy.
Fresh Garlic vs. Garlic Powder: Freshly minced garlic gives a much stronger, aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
Customize the Herbs: Experiment with adding different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to suit your taste preferences.
Cheese Variety: If you don’t have Parmesan, you can swap it for Romano or even mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor.
Use Quality Bread: The bread you choose makes a difference! French or Italian bread works best, but any hearty, crusty bread will do.
Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crunchy top, broil the garlic bread for a minute or two after baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic bread spread in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Just spread it on the bread right before baking.
Add a Kick: If you love spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the spread for a little heat.

Storing

Store any leftover garlic bread spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the spread for longer storage, allowing it to thaw in the fridge before using again.

Easy Garlic Bread Spread made with butter, garlic, and herbs spread on a loaf of bread, ready to bake.

Recipe Variations

Garlic Bread Spread with Garlic Powder: Replace the minced garlic with garlic powder, using 1-2 teaspoons, adjust to taste.
Garlic Bread Spread with Olive Oil: Substitute the melted butter with 1/2 cup of olive oil.

Simple Garlic Spread Recipe Faqs

Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but the flavor might not be as rich. Butter gives a classic, creamy taste.

Can I make this without fresh garlic? Yes! You can use garlic powder or garlic salt as a substitute. Start with about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder per clove of garlic.

How do I apply the garlic spread to the bread? Use a butter knife to spread the garlic butter generously on both sides of your bread before toasting or baking.

Can I make garlic bread without baking it? Yes, if you want to make it without baking, you can spread the garlic mixture on the bread and then simply toast it on a skillet over medium heat.

Can I add cheese to the garlic spread? Yes, you can mix in grated Parmesan or mozzarella to the spread for a cheesy garlic bread spread. It’ll add flavor and a bit of meltiness.

How do I prevent the spread from being too garlicky? You can control the garlic flavor by adjusting the amount you use. If you’re sensitive to garlic, try using 1 or 2 cloves and taste-testing before spreading.

What type of bread is best for garlic bread? French bread, Italian bread, or a baguette are popular choices for garlic bread because they have a firm texture that holds up well to the spread and toasting.

Can I use this spread for other recipes? Absolutely! You can use this garlic spread for garlic knots, pizza crusts, or even as a topping for roasted vegetables or grilled meats.

Plate of homemade garlic bread in bread basket, with homemade easy Garlic Bread Spread.

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